PNF Techniques
A patient performs a hamstring stretch by contracting the hamstring against resistance, relaxing, and then moving further into stretch. What technique is this and what mechanism is being used?
Contract-Relax (CR) → Autogenic inhibition (GTO)
The PTA applies resistance while the muscle shortens during movement. What type of contraction is this?
Concentric
A patient becomes shaky, sweaty, pale, and confused during treatment. What condition is MOST likely occurring?
Hypoglycemia
What scale is used to measure a patient’s perceived level of exertion during exercise?
RPE (Borg scale)
Name two dimension of health and wellness besides physical.
Emotional, social, intellectual, spiritual, etc.
A patient has significant guarding and pain with stretching. Which PNF technique would be MOST appropriate to improve ROM and why?
CR or CRAC → reduces guarding via GTO activation and relaxation
A patient is slowly lowering a weight under control as the PTA applies resistance. What type of contraction is being performed and why is it important?
Eccentric → controls movement, important for functional tasks (stairs, lowering)
A patient with a T4 SCI reports a pounding headache, flushing, and BP of 200/110. What condition is this and what is the FIRST action?
Autonomic dysreflexia → sit patient upright, remove stimulus
Name 4 signs and symptoms where you may need to stop aerobic exercise with your patient?
nausea, pale, dizziness, chest pain, jaw/arm pain, excessive SOB.
Name two relaxation exercises we discussed in lab and their benefit?
diaphragmatic breathing- increases O2 saturation, improve contraction of diaphragm filling lower lung seg. prog muscle relaxation -tense and contract all muscles
This receptor detects muscle stretch and causes the muscle to contract to prevent overstretching. What is it and what is its function?
Muscle spindle – detects stretch → causes contraction
A post-op patient is not allowed to move the joint but needs to maintain muscle activation. What type of contraction should be used and why?
Isometric → increases strength without joint movement
During ambulation, a patient suddenly develops shortness of breath, chest pain, and a drop in SpO₂. What is the MOST likely condition and what should the PTA do immediately?
Pulmonary embolism → stop treatment, position safely, call for help
Why is the Karvonen method more accurate than using % of max HR alone when prescribing exercise?
Accounts for resting HR → more individualized intensity
What transfer device is used for patients who require dependent and cannot bear weight?
Hoyer lift
Which structure responds to contraction and causes muscle relaxation?
Golgi Tendon Organ (GTO)
Which contraction will cause a patient to have DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness)?
Eccentric
A patient becomes flushed, warm, and has fruity breath odor. What condition is MOST likely?
Hyperglycemia
What RPE range corresponds to moderate intensity exercise?
11–13 (Borg scale)
When using a Hoyer lift, what must always be checked before lifting?
Sling placement and safety
A patient is unable to actively contract the any of the target muscles surrounding the area due to pain. Which stretching technique would be MOST appropriate?
Static stretching (or passive stretch)
A PTA is performing manual resistance to shoulder flexion in sitting but cannot complete full ROM. What is the BEST modification?
change position to side-lying
A patient suddenly loses consciousness and begins convulsing. What is the PRIORITY action?
Protect patient from injury, do NOT restrain and time
A patient reports chest pain during exercise. What is the BEST action?
STOP Exercise immediately, monitor vitals. get ready for potential emergency
Discuss 4 topics you may educate a caregiver on for a safe home environment?
throw rugs/cords, grab bars, non slip mats in showers, tub transfer bench, elevated toilet seat, bed height, equipment storage and maneuvering